A knowledge‐based economy landscape: Implications for tertiary education and research training in Australia

Abstract

This paper discusses the higher education sector's role in a knowledge‐based economy though research training, that is, doctoral education. It also examines how a Faculty of Education supports its doctoral candidates in their endeavours to become ‘knowledge producers’. Two themes are explored: one is Australia's limited investment in education by international standards; and the other is the research training needs and circumstances of doctoral candidates who are located in professional and workplace contexts. The paper discusses the role of online support and a Doctoral Studies in Education (DSE) online seminar program to support primarily off‐campus, part‐time mid‐career professionals. These are typical of many of Australia's doctoral candidates. E‐learning is examined as part of a comprehensive support and research training strategy for doctoral candidates studying at a distance. We discuss the sorts of opportunities and experiences our candidates receive and the extent to which they are readied to work effectively in a knowledge‐based economy.